Bethlehem Granada Hills Podcast

Song and Sermon from Sunday February 9, 2020 "Walk in the Light" Arranged by Andre Thomas Choral Directors: Marisa Bradfield & Matthew A. Kessell Accompanists: Suzanne Recer & Vicente Ditto streaming permission under CCLI license #CSPL141755 Sermon by Pastor Ioan Ittu Shortly after the return of Israel from exile in Babylon, the people were troubled by the ineffectiveness of their fasts. God reminds them that outward observance is no substitute for genuine fasting that results in acts of justice, such as feeding the hungry, sheltering the homeless, and clothing the naked. Bethlehem Lutheran Church Granada Hills, CA www.bethlehemlutheran.net

Song and Sermon from Sunday, February 2, 2020 "Order My Steps" by Glenn Burleigh; arranged by Jack Schrader Choral Directors: Marisa Bradfield & Matthew A. Kessell Accompanists: Suzanne Recer & Vicente Ditto streaming permission under CCLI license #CSPL141755 Sermon by Pastor Megan Fryling Matthew 5:1-12 Jesus opens the Sermon on the Mount by naming those who are blessed in the reign of God. Bethlehem Lutheran Church Granada Hills, CA www.bethlehemlutheran.net

Song and Sermon from Sunday, January 26, 2020 “Glory, Glory!” Spiritual arranged by Keith Christopher. Choral Directors: Marisa Bradfield & Matthew A. Kessell Accompanists: Suzanne Recer & Vicente Ditto streaming permission under CCLI license #CSPL141755 Sermon by Confirmation Students Our junior high confirmands are sharing with us where they see God in the world. Bethlehem Lutheran Church Granada Hills, CA www.bethlehemlutheran.net

Song and Sermon from Sunday, December 8, 2019 “Midwinter Noel” by Gustav Holst, arranged by Jay Rouse Choral Directors: Marisa Bradfield & Matthew A. Kessell Accompanists: Suzanne Recer & Vicente Ditto streaming permission under CCLI license #CSPL141755 Sermon by Pastor Megan Fryling Isaiah 11:1-10 Isaiah describes the coming of a future, ideal ruler who will renew David’s royal line (the stump of Jesse). Gifted by the spirit of God, this ruler will reign with perfect justice. Enmity and danger will be restored to harmony and peaceful coexistence. Bethlehem Lutheran Church Granada Hills, CA www.bethlehemlutheran.net

Song and Sermon from Sunday, December 1, 2019 "Jesus Child" by John Rutter Choral Directors: Marisa Bradfield & Matthew A. Kessell Accompanists: Suzanne Recer & Vicente Ditto streaming permission under CCLI license #CSPL141755 Sermon by Pastor Ioan Ittu Isaiah 2:1-5 The visionary message presented in this reading focuses on a future day when God establishes a universal reign of peace. Divine decisions will make war obsolete, and the worshiping community responds: “Let us walk in the light of that Lord now!” Bethlehem Lutheran Church Granada Hills, CA www.bethlehemlutheran.net

Song and Sermon from Sunday, November 24, 2019 “Thanksgiving Bells” by George J. Elvey, arr. Kinyon Bell Choir Choral Directors: Marisa Bradfield & Matthew A. Kessell Accompanists: Suzanne Recer & Vicente Ditto streaming permission under CCLI license #CSPL141755 Sermon by Pastor Ioan Ittu Jeremiah 23:1-6 Today’s reading builds on the common ancient Near Eastern metaphor of the king as shepherd. Judah’s unjust rulers have caused their people, their “flock,” to be scattered. Nevertheless, the Lord will raise up a new and righteous shepherd who will rule a restored Judah. Bethlehem Lutheran Church Granada Hills, CA www.bethlehemlutheran.net

Song and Sermon from Sunday, November 3, 2019 “Glory, Glory” Spiritual arranged by Keith Christopher Choral Directors: Marisa Bradfield & Matthew A. Kessell Accompanists: Suzanne Recer & Vicente Ditto streaming permission under CCLI license #CSPL141755 Sermon by Pastor Megan Fryling 2 Thessalonians 1:1-4, 11-12 This letter of Paul begins with a typical salutation, blessing, and words of praise for what God is accomplishing among the recipients. By remaining faithful and growing spiritually during hardship, the Thessalonian Christians have become witnesses to the glory of God. Bethlehem Lutheran Church Granada Hills, CA www.bethlehemlutheran.net

Song and Sermon from Sunday, October 27, 2019 “Achieved is the Glorious Work” by Joseph Haydn Choral Directors: Marisa Bradfield & Matthew A. Kessell Accompanists: Suzanne Recer & Vicente Ditto streaming permission under CCLI license #CSPL141755 Sermon by Pastor Megan Fryling Luke 18:9-14 The coming reign of God will involve unexpected reversals of fortune with judgment rooted in mercy. Jesus tells a parable in which the one who humbles himself is exalted and the one who exalts his own righteousness is humbled. Bethlehem Lutheran Church Granada Hills, CA www.bethlehemlutheran.net

Song and Sermon from Sunday, October 20, 2019 “Lord, Listen to Your Children Praying” arranged by Jack Schrader Choral Directors: Marisa Bradfield & Matthew A. Kessell Accompanists: Suzanne Recer & Vicente Ditto streaming permission under CCLI license #CSPL141755 Sermon by Pastor Ioan Ittu Luke 18:1-8 Jesus tells a parable of a hateful judge who is worn down by a widow’s pleas. Jesus is calling God’s people to cry out for justice and deliverance. For if an unethical judge will ultimately grant the plea of a persistent widow, how much more will God respond to those who call. Bethlehem Lutheran Church Granada Hills, CA www.bethlehemlutheran.net

Song and Sermon from Sunday, October 6, 2019 “If You Had Faith” Latin American Folk Song; Arranged by Rory Cooney & Beth Lederman Choral Directors: Marisa Bradfield & Matthew A. Kessell Accompanists: Suzanne Recer & Vicente Ditto streaming permission under CCLI license #CSPL141755 Sermon by Pastor Megan Fryling 2 Timothy 1:1-14 This message written from Paul to Timothy is a personal message of encouragement. In the face of hardship and persecution, Timothy is reminded that his faith is a gift of God. He is encouraged to exercise that faith with the help of the Holy Spirit. Bethlehem Lutheran Church Granada Hills, CA www.bethlehemlutheran.net

Song and Sermon from Sunday, September 29, 2019 “Be Still My Child” by Lee Dengler & Susan Naus Dengler Choral Directors: Marisa Bradfield & Matthew A. Kessell Accompanists: Suzanne Recer & Vicente Ditto streaming permission under CCLI license #CSPL141755 Sermon by Pastor Ioan Ittu Luke 16:19-31 Jesus tells a parable in which the poor one is “lifted up” and the rich one is “sent away empty.” Jesus makes it clear that this ethic of merciful reversal is not new but is as old as Moses and the prophets. Bethlehem Lutheran Church Granada Hills, CA www.bethlehemlutheran.net

Song and Sermon from Sunday, September 22, 2019 “How Can I Keep From Singing?” by Robert Lowry and Robert A. Hobby Choral Directors: Marisa Bradfield & Matthew A. Kessell Accompanists: Suzanne Recer & Vicente Ditto streaming permission under CCLI license #CSPL141755 Sermon by Pastor Ioan Ittu Luke 16:1-13 Jesus tells the curious story of a dishonest man who cheats his employer and then is commended by him for having acted so shrewdly. Jesus wonders why his own followers are less creative and diligent in their stewardship given that they are managers of a far more valuable household. Bethlehem Lutheran Church Granada Hills, CA www.bethlehemlutheran.net

Song and Sermon from Sunday, September 8, 2019 “All Things Bright and Beautiful” by John Rutter Choral Directors: Marisa Bradfield & Matthew A. Kessell Accompanists: Suzanne Recer & Vicente Ditto streaming permission under CCLI license #CSPL141755 Sermon by Pastor Ioan Ittu Luke 14:25-33 Jesus speaks frankly about the fearsome costs of discipleship. Those who follow him should know from the outset that completing the course of discipleship will finally mean renouncing all other allegiances. Bethlehem Lutheran Church Granada Hills, CA www.bethlehemlutheran.net

Song and Sermon from Sunday, September 1, 2019 "God of Grace " by Keith Getty and Jonathan Rea; arranged by Lloyd Larson Choral Directors: Marisa Bradfield & Matthew A. Kessell Accompanists: Suzanne Recer & Vicente Ditto streaming permission under CCLI license #CSPL141755 Sermon by Pastor Megan Fryling Luke 14:1, 7-14 Jesus observes guests jockeying for position at the table. He uses the opportunity to teach his hearers to choose humility rather than self-exaltation. Jesus also makes an appeal for hosts to mimic God’s gracious hospitality to the poor and the broken. Bethlehem Lutheran Church Granada Hills, CA www.bethlehemlutheran.net

Song and Sermon from Sunday, August 25, 2019 "Blessings Abound" by Pepper Choplin Choral Directors: Marisa Bradfield & Matthew A. Kessell Accompanists: Suzanne Recer & Vicente Ditto streaming permission under CCLI license #CSPL141755 Sermon by Rev. Dr. Mark Rich Luke 13:10-17 Jesus heals a woman on the sabbath, offering her a new beginning for her life. When challenged by a narrow reading of the sabbath command, Jesus responds by expanding “sabbath work” to include setting people free from bondage. Bethlehem Lutheran Church Granada Hills, CA www.bethlehemlutheran.net

Song and Sermon from Sunday August 18th 2019 "Shout Glory" by Bryon J. Smith Choral Directors: Marisa Bradfield & Matthew A. Kessell Accompanists: Suzanne Recer & Vicente Ditto streaming permission under CCLI license #CSPL141755 Sermon by Bishop Guy Erwin Bethlehem Lutheran Church Granada Hills, CA www.bethlehemlutheran.net

Song and Sermon from Sunday August 11th 2019 "Wade in the Water" by Mark Hayes Choral Directors: Marisa Bradfield & Matthew A. Kessell Accompanists: Suzanne Recer & Vicente Ditto streaming permission under CCLI license #CSPL141755 Sermon by Pastor Ioan Ittu Hebrews 11:1-3, 8-16 Abraham and Sarah exemplify the vision of faith that people of God enact in every age. Their hope and trust in God’s promise allowed them to face an unknown future and to receive the promise of God. Bethlehem Lutheran Church Granada Hills, CA www.bethlehemlutheran.net

Song and Sermon from Sunday August 4th 2019 "Unto Thee O God" by David Michael Layne Choral Directors: Marisa Bradfield & Matthew A. Kessell Accompanists: Suzanne Recer & Vicente Ditto streaming permission under CCLI license #CSPL141755 Sermon by Deacon Shannon Savage-Howie Luke 12:13-21 In God’s reign, the “rich will be sent away empty.” Jesus uses a parable to warn against identifying the worth of one’s life with the value of one’s possessions rather than one’s relationship with God. Bethlehem Lutheran Church Granada Hills, CA www.bethlehemlutheran.net

Song and Sermon from Sunday July 28th 2019 "Only God" by Mary McDonald Choral Directors: Marisa Bradfield & Matthew A. Kessell Accompanists: Suzanne Recer & Vicente Ditto streaming permission under CCLI license #CSPL141755 Sermon by Pastor Megan Fryling Luke 11:1-13 In teaching his disciples this prayer, Jesus also reminds them to focus on God’s coming reign, God’s mercy, and the strengthening of the community. Jesus encourages his disciples to child-like trust and persistence in prayer. Bethlehem Lutheran Church Granada Hills, CA www.bethlehemlutheran.net

Song and Sermon from Sunday July 7th 2019 “The Prayer” by David Foster, Carole Bayer Sager, Alberto Testa and Tony Renis Choral Directors: Marisa Bradfield & Matthew A. Kessell Accompanists: Suzanne Recer & Vicente Ditto streaming permission under CCLI license #CSPL141755 Sermon by Pastor Megan Fryling Luke 10:1-11, 16-20 Jesus commissions harvesters and laborers to go where he would go and do what he would do. Risking hardship and danger in exchange for the experience of great joy, they offer peace and healing as signs that the reign of God is near. Bethlehem Lutheran Church Granada Hills, CA www.bethlehemlutheran.net

Song and Sermon from Sunday June 30th 2019 "Guide My Feet" arranged by Henry Leck and Martin Ellis Choral Directors: Marisa Bradfield & Matthew A. Kessell Accompanists: Suzanne Recer & Vicente Ditto streaming permission under CCLI license #CSPL141755 Sermon by Pastor Ioan Ittu 1 Chronicles 12:23-40 The tribes of Israel gather their fighting men at Hebron to declare David the new King over all Israel after King Saul died in battle. Bethlehem Lutheran Church Granada Hills, CA www.bethlehemlutheran.net

Song and Sermon from Sunday June 23rd 2019 "Let Your Light Shine" Choral Directors: Marisa Bradfield & Matthew A. Kessell Accompanists: Suzanne Recer & Vicente Ditto streaming permission under CCLI license #CSPL141755 Sermon by Pastor Megan Fryling Luke 8:26-39 Jesus’ mission includes foreigners, and his authority extends to the casting out of demons. Some who witness Jesus’ work are seized with confusion and fear, but the man who was healed is commissioned to give testimony of God’s mercy and power. Bethlehem Lutheran Church Granada Hills, CA www.bethlehemlutheran.net

Song and Sermon from Sunday June 16th 2019 "The Majesty and Glory of Your Name" by Tom Fettke Choral Directors: Marisa Bradfield & Matthew A. Kessell Accompanists: Suzanne Recer & Vicente Ditto streaming permission under CCLI license #CSPL141755 Sermon by Pastor Ioan Ittu Proverbs 8:1-31 In the Bible, wisdom has many faces. It is portrayed in terms sometimes human and sometimes divine. Often, it is personified as feminine. In this passage, Woman Wisdom is depicted not only as the first creation of God but also as God’s helper, rejoicing in God’s creation, especially in human beings. Bethlehem Lutheran Church Granada Hills, CA www.bethlehemlutheran.net

Song and Sermon from Sunday June 13th 2019 "Old Church Choir" by Zach Williams, Colby Wedgeworth & Ethan Hulse Arrangement by Michael Barrett Guest Soloists: Natalie Nakata & Kiera Nusbaum Choral Directors: Marisa Bradfield & Matthew A. Kessell Accompanists: Suzanne Recer & Vicente Ditto streaming permission under CCLI license #CSPL141755 Sermon by Pastor Ioan Ittu Acts 2:1-21 Before Jesus ascended into heaven, he told his disciples they would be filled with the Holy Spirit. Now, surrounded by signs of fire, wind, and a variety of languages in their midst, the people were amazed and astonished at Jesus’ promise coming true. Bethlehem Lutheran Church Granada Hills, CA www.bethlehemlutheran.net

Song and Sermon from Sunday June 2nd 2019 "Revelation 19" by Jeffery Lavalley Arranged by Jack Schrader Choral Directors: Marisa Bradfield & Matthew A. Kessell Accompanists: Suzanne Recer & Vicente Ditto streaming permission under CCLI license #CSPL141755 Pastor Ioan Ittu John 17:20-26 Jesus prays that the life of his followers will be characterized by an intimate unity of identity with God. To be so identified with God means also to share in God’s mission: to proclaim the word that will bring others into this same unity. Bethlehem Lutheran Church Granada Hills, CA www.bethlehemlutheran.net

Song and Sermon from Sunday May 26th 2019 "This is the Day the Lord has Made" by Mark Hayes Choral Directors: Marisa Bradfield & Matthew A. Kessell Accompanists: Suzanne Recer & Vicente Ditto streaming permission under CCLI license #CSPL141755 Pastor Ioan Ittu Acts 16:9-15 A vision compels Paul to move his ministry into Greece. There he meets Lydia, an important person in the business community, whose heart has been opened by God to receive the gospel. Her conversion and baptism provide the impetus for the founding of the church at Philippi. Bethlehem Lutheran Church Granada Hills, CA www.bethlehemlutheran.net

Song and Sermon from Sunday May 19th 2019 "I am His Child" by Moses Hogan Choral Directors: Marisa Bradfield & Matthew A. Kessell Accompanists: Suzanne Recer & Vicente Ditto streaming permission under CCLI license #CSPL141755 Anthony Eder, Director of Outreach, LRCC LRCC provides sanctuaries in time and space where Christ can be encountered, faith renewed and the joy of community discovered. Our Lutheran outdoor ministry supplements congregational recreational outdoor ministry and camping for all ages and offers refreshing, faith-enriching retreat experiences by creating dynamic Christian community, rewarding educational opportunities and outdoor relaxation from the routine and hectic pace of life. www.lrcchome.com Bethlehem Lutheran Church Granada Hills, CA www.bethlehemlutheran.net

Song and Sermon from Sunday May 5th 2019 "Christ is Risen, Is Risen Indeed" by Keith Getty, Kristyn Getty & Ed Cash Arranged by James Koerts Choral Directors: Marisa Bradfield & Matthew A. Kessell Accompanists: Suzanne Recer & Vicente Ditto streaming permission under CCLI license #CSPL141755 Sermon by Pastor Megan Fryling John 21:1-19 The risen Christ appears again to his disciples by the sea where they were first called. After echoes of the fishing and feeding miracles, he gives a final reminder of the cost of a disciple’s love and obedience. Bethlehem Lutheran Church Granada Hills, CA www.bethlehemlutheran.net

Song and Sermon from Sunday April 28th 2019 "Mercy Tree" by Michael Neale & Krissy Nordhoff Arranged by Joseph M. Martin Choral Directors: Marisa Bradfield & Matthew A. Kessell Accompanists: Suzanne Recer & Vicente Ditto streaming permission under CCLI license #CSPL141755 Sermon by Pastor Megan Fryling John 20:19-31 The unprecedented events of the day of resurrection continue as the risen Jesus appears to his fearful disciples. A week later, after Thomas worships Jesus, Jesus pronounces that the blessings of the resurrection are also for those who “have not seen and yet believe.” Bethlehem Lutheran Church Granada Hills, CA www.bethlehemlutheran.net

Song and Sermon from Easter Sunday April 21st 2019 "Resurrection Power" by Ed Cash, Ryan Ellis & Tony Brown Arranged by Ed Hogan Choral Directors: Marisa Bradfield & Matthew A. Kessell Accompanists: Suzanne Recer & Vicente Ditto streaming permission under CCLI license #CSPL141755 Sermon by Pastor Ioan Ittu Luke 24:1-12 Evidently expecting to find Jesus’ corpse, some of his women followers go to the tomb with embalming spices. After a perplexing encounter with the empty tomb and angelic visitors, the women become the first to proclaim the amazing news of resurrection. Bethlehem Lutheran Church Granada Hills, CA www.bethlehemlutheran.net

Song and Sermon from Palm Sunday April 14th 2019 "Ride On, King Jesus" Arranged by Philip Kern Choral Directors: Marisa Bradfield & Matthew A. Kessell Accompanists: Suzanne Recer & Vicente Ditto streaming permission under CCLI license #CSPL141755 Sermon by Pastor Megan Fryling Luke 19:28-40 In Luke’s account of the entry into Jerusalem, the crowd echoes the song of the angels at Jesus’ birth (Luke 2:14). As befits Luke’s attention to Gentile readership, he omits Matthew’s quote from Zechariah and the reference in Mark and Matthew to King David. Bethlehem Lutheran Church Granada Hills, CA www.bethlehemlutheran.net

Song and Sermon from Sunday April 7th 2019 "Be Thou My Vision" by John Rutter Choral Directors: Marisa Bradfield & Matthew A. Kessell Accompanists: Suzanne Recer & Vicente Ditto streaming permission under CCLI license #CSPL141755 Sermon by Pastor Ioan Ittu Philippians 3:4b-14 Writing to Christians in Philippi, Paul admits that his heritage and reputation could give him more reason than most people to place confidence in his spiritual pedigree. But the overwhelming grace of God in Jesus calls Paul to a new set of values. Bethlehem Lutheran Church Granada Hills, CA www.bethlehemlutheran.net

Song and Sermon from Sunday March 31st 2019 "In Remembrance" by Ragan Courtney & Buryl Red Choral Directors: Marisa Bradfield & Matthew A. Kessell Accompanists: Suzanne Recer & Vicente Ditto streaming permission under CCLI license #CSPL141755 Sermon by Pastor Megan Fryling 2 Corinthians 5:16-21 One way to describe the gospel is the promise that in Christ everything is transformed into newness. All mistakes, all deliberate sins, all old history is reconciled with Christ’s resurrection. This is Paul’s strong message to the congregation in the city of Corinth. Bethlehem Lutheran Church Granada Hills, CA www.bethlehemlutheran.net

Song and Sermon from Sunday March 24th 2019 "I Want Jesus to Walk with Me" Arrangement by Jay Althouse Choral Directors: Marisa Bradfield & Matthew A. Kessell Accompanists: Suzanne Recer & Vicente Ditto streaming permission under CCLI license #CSPL141755 Sermon by Pastor Megan Fryling Luke 13:1-9 Asked about current tragic events, Jesus turns a lesson about whether suffering is deserved into a hard call to obedience. He then tells a parable that holds out hope that the timeline for ultimate judgment will be tempered by patience. Bethlehem Lutheran Church Granada Hills, CA www.bethlehemlutheran.net

Song and Sermon from Sunday March 17th 2019 "A Place for Healing Grace" by Heather Sorenson Choral Directors: Marisa Bradfield & Matthew A. Kessell Accompanists: Suzanne Recer & Vicente Ditto streaming permission under CCLI license #CSPL141755 sermon by Pastor Ioan Ittu Luke 5:1-11 Jesus’ teaching of God’s word has begun to draw great crowds. For Simon, James, and John, Jesus’ teaching inspires hospitality, then obedience, and then risk. After Jesus’ creative power is revealed, fear and amazement lead these three fishermen to leave everything behind in order to become apostles. Bethlehem Lutheran Church Granada Hills, CA www.bethlehemlutheran.net

Song and Sermon from Sunday March 10th 2019 "On Eagle's Wings" arranged by Douglas Wagner Choral Directors: Marisa Bradfield & Matthew A. Kessell Accompanists: Suzanne Recer & Vicente Ditto streaming permission under CCLI license #CSPL141755 sermon by Pastor Megan Fryling Luke 4:1-13 After being filled with the Holy Spirit at his baptism, Jesus is led in the wilderness. Through his responses to the temptations of the devil, he defines what it means to be called “the Son of God.” Bethlehem Lutheran Church Granada Hills, CA www.bethlehemlutheran.net